WASHINGTON. Sept 1 (Interfax) - Against the backdrop of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's ongoing visit to the United States, Washington intends to approve a framework agreement to bolster military cooperation with Kyiv, including with the aim of deterring Russia, an unnamed White House spokesperson said during a press call.
"The Defense Department will be signing a strategic defense framework that will enhance our cooperation [with Ukraine] across a range of pressing issues, including Black Sea security, cyber and intelligence sharing, as well as continued support for Ukraine as it faces continuing Russian aggression," a White House press release quoted the spokesperson as saying.
U.S. President Joe Biden will approve a new $60-million package of cybersecurity aid to Ukraine, he said.
When commenting on the two presidents' meeting, the spokesperson noted that Washington is willing to continue discussing the security situation in Ukraine, as Ukraine is "continuing to see acts of Russian aggression in the region." Biden is also looking forward to a more fulsome update from Zelensky on the current security situation.
Associated Press said on Tuesday that the U.S. has promised $60 million in military aid to Ukraine because of a "major increase in Russian military activity along its border", ceasefire violations and provocations.
Zelensky is currently in the U.S. on an August 31-September 1 official visit. He is expected to meet with Biden on September 1.
In March of this year, the Pentagon announced $125 million in military aid to Ukraine and a transfer of two patrol boats to this country.